Hands-On Magnolia Topiary Workshop at Weston Farms, Adairsville

Weston Farms Topiary Party in Adairsville, Georgia, invites makers and garden lovers to a hands-on, social workshop on a working Southern farm. Hosted by Erin Weston, founder of Weston Farms, this class teaches the specialized technique of crafting sculptural topiaries using the farm’s own magnolia leaves. The setting is rural Adairsville—broad fields, old trees, and a farmhouse atmosphere less than two hours from Atlanta—where the foliage and steady pace of farm life shape the experience. Participants arrive to a long communal table laid with frames, wiring, and buckets of glossy magnolia leaves. Erin’s method focuses on accessibility: no prior horticultural experience is required, but precision and patience pay off. Over a two- to three-hour session you'll learn how to attach leaves to a frame, build volume without overworking the branches, and finish a compact, elegant topiary to take home. The key features of the scene are the magnolia leaves themselves—thick, leathery, deep green above and velvety bronze below—and the hands-on rhythm of clipping, wiring, and arranging. Look up and you'll see live magnolia specimens that supply the materials, and a low farmstead skyline punctuated by fields and mature oaks. This workshop stands out because it pairs a craft discipline with local botany: the magnolia is an emblem of the region and functions as both material and muse. The experience doubles as a maker’s class and a field lesson in regional planting practices; Erin shares care tips so your topiary lasts through season changes. For visitors to Adairsville, Weston Farms provides a distinctive, low-impact way to engage with local plants outside of standard hiking or garden-tour offerings. Practical notes: the schedule is suited to families and small groups; bring airtight transport or a box for your finished piece. The workshop is primarily indoors or under sheltered tables but uses plant material gathered outdoors, so wear comfortable clothes that can handle a little sap. If you're a photographer, plan for tight, tactile shots of hands and leaves rather than wide landscapes. Why book this? For a traveler seeking a memorable, hands-on souvenir tied to place, the Topiary Party offers a tactile souvenir, friendly instruction from a local maker, and the rare chance to work directly with magnolia foliage harvested on site. The result is not only a finished decorative object but a deeper appreciation for the plants that shape Georgia’s garden traditions. Sessions run year-round when material is available; check the reservation link for specific dates. Workshops accommodate beginners and experienced makers who want a seasonal project or a group activity for special occasions. It’s an ideal stop for day-trippers exploring northwest Georgia or for anyone who wants a workshop that leaves you with skill and a living piece of Southern horticulture.